University of California, San Diego
About the university
University of California, San Diego (UCSD) is a top-ranked public research university located in La Jolla, California. It is part of the University of California system and is widely recognized for its strengths in science, engineering, medicine, and oceanography. UCSD is closely affiliated with major research institutions such as Scripps Institution of Oceanography and UC San Diego Health. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs and emphasizes innovation, interdisciplinary research, and global impact. Its coastal campus provides a unique academic and living environment.
Key information
- Location: San Diego, CA, USA
- Ranking #20
- QS #62
- THE #34
- US News #28
- National ranking #6
- Institution type: public
Popular faculties
- Computer Science
- Engineering
- Biology
- Economics
- Political Science
Programs (29)
- Computer Science
- Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Medicine
- Nursing
- Pharmacy
- Business Administration
- Economics
- Finance and Accounting
- Marketing
- Tourism and Hospitality
- Law
- Political Science
- International Relations
- Philosophy
- History
- Linguistics
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Environmental Science
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Anthropology
- Education
- Fine Arts
- Music
Student body
- Total students: 44,000
- Undergraduate: 36,000
- Graduate: 8,000
- International students: 15%
Campus life
UCSD's 1,200-acre coastal campus in La Jolla features the Stuart Collection of outdoor sculptures and the iconic Geisel Library. Organized into seven residential colleges, each with its own identity and requirements, UCSD combines cutting-edge research with a relaxed beach-town atmosphere and access to world-class surfing and outdoor recreation.
Housing & accommodation
Housing cost: $1,050 - $2,300 / per month
Housing options
- Residential colleges (7 colleges with own housing)
- University apartments (Rita Atkinson, Mesa Nueva)
- Village at Torrey Pines
- Off-campus in La Jolla
Student clubs and organizations
- UCSD Guardian
- Triton Engineering Student Council
- Triton Gaming
- International House
- Student-Run Television
- Medical Student Research
- Surf Club
Sports
- Swimming
- Water Polo
- Soccer
- Volleyball
- Tennis
- Rowing
- Track & Field
- Fencing
- Baseball
- Basketball
Career & internships
Employment rate: 91%
Partner companies
- Apple
- Qualcomm
- Amazon
- Microsoft
- Intel
- Pfizer
Internships: UCSD provides strong internship opportunities through partnerships with leading companies and research institutions in California. Students often secure internships in technology, biotech, healthcare, and finance sectors. The Career Center supports students with job placement, resume building, and networking events.
Admission requirements
Required tests
- SAT
- ACT
- IELTS
- TOEFL
- GRE
Required documents
- Application Form
- Academic Transcripts
- GPA
- Personal Insight Questions
- English Proficiency Test (TOEFL/IELTS)
Minimum GPA: 4.3
Tuition costs
- $14,500 - $44,500 / per year
- Acceptance rate: 24.00%
- Scholarships available: UCSD provides various financial aid options including need-based grants, merit scholarships, and federal aid programs. Approximately 60% of students receive some form of financial assistance. Competitive scholarships such as Regents Scholarship offer significant support. International students have limited access to federal aid but may apply for institutional scholarships and external funding sources.
Quick facts
- Founded: 1960
- Teaching languages: English, english
- Study formats: offline
Contact
- Website: https://ucsd.edu
- [email protected]
- +1-858-534-4831